Discover the Joy of Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls
There’s something truly magical about cabbage rolls, especially when they’re made the traditional Romanian way. Known for its hearty and comforting dishes, Romanian cuisine shines brightly with its beloved cabbage rolls. These delightful parcels, often reserved for special occasions like Christmas or Easter, can transform any ordinary day into a celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cabbage rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker. The combination of juicy ground pork, tender rice, and the unique flavor of sour cabbage leaves creates a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a meal that’s more than just a side dish—it’s a complete experience.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (crockpot)
- Microwave-safe dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 1 Head of Cabbage
- 3 Cups Tomato Juice
- 1 8oz. can tomato sauce
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup uncooked brown or white rice
- 1 envelope Onion soup mix
- 1 lb. Ground Turkey or Extra Lean Ground Beef
- 1/3 Cup Parmesan Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Peel 8-12 large leaves off the cabbage head and place them in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with about an inch of water and microwave on high for 2 minutes to soften them.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, egg, ground turkey or beef, rice, onion soup mix, and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together using your fingers until well combined.
- Spray your crockpot with some Pam cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Take a portion of the meat mixture and place it in the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf around the mixture to form a neat ball, and place it seam-side down in the crockpot. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture is used.
- Once all the cabbage rolls are arranged in the crockpot, pour the 3 cups of tomato juice over them.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure the cabbage leaves are pliable enough to roll without tearing. If needed, microwave them a bit longer. Additionally, avoid overfilling the leaves to make rolling easier.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a smoky flavor, consider layering some smoked bacon on top of the rolls before cooking. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these cabbage rolls is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome meal choice. Exact nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use regular cabbage instead of sour cabbage? Yes, but you’ll need to blanch the cabbage leaves to make them pliable enough for rolling.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Cabbage rolls freeze well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls are a testament to the comforting and flavorful nature of Romanian cuisine. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Bon appétit!